San Marcos Mourns After Deadly Downtown Shooting Claims Lives of Two Young Men, Injures Another
The community of San Marcos is reeling after a violent shooting erupted in the early hours of Saturday, July 19, 2025, near the busy intersection of San Antonio and Guadalupe Streets, just steps from the fabric of downtown nightlife and Texas State University.
đź•‘ Incident Timeline
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Around 1:30 a.m., an altercation between two acquaintances escalated along The Square, a popular nightlife destination .
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During the fight, a third person reportedly stole a necklace, further inflaming tensions
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19‑year‑old Jermiah Jayden Tobias, who was not originally involved, stepped in and fired multiple shots, killing two young men and injuring a third.
🕊️ Victims
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Anthony Barrera, 24, was pronounced dead at the scene by Hays County Justice of the Peace Alek Pacheco, 20, succumbed to his injuries after being transported to Christus Santa Rosa Hospital  .
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A third man suffered a grazing gunshot wound and has since been treated and released from a local hospital .
🚨 Investigation & Legal Action
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Tobias was arrested later that evening (~8 p.m.) and faces two counts of capital murder and one count of aggravated assault .
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Though Tobias is in custody, San Marcos Police have reported others detained, but have not yet disclosed additional names or charges .
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Authorities confirm there is no ongoing public threat, but a heavy police presence remained after the shooting and streets were temporarily closed until reopening .
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Police are urging anyone with photos, videos, or information to contact them at 512‑753‑2108 to assist the investigation.
đź“‹ Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | July 19, 2025 |
| Time | ~1:30 a.m. |
| Location | San Antonio & Guadalupe Streets, San Marcos |
| Fatalities | Anthony Barrera (24) at scene; Alek Pacheco (20) at hospital |
| Injured | One man, grazed by bullet; released from hospital |
| Suspect | Jermiah Jayden Tobias, 19—charged with capital murder & aggravated assault |
| Status | Active investigation; no ongoing threat |
đź’” Community Reactions
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The incident has shocked downtown residents, Texas State students, and local business owners who frequent The Square.
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Social media is flooded with tributes, shock, and demands for improved safety in downtown areas.
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Affected loved ones have described Anthony and Alek as vibrant young men full of life, whose futures were abruptly stolen.
🚨 Broader Implications
The senseless aftermath of this shooting is prompting calls for:
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Enhanced public safety measures—increased patrols, improved lighting, and de-escalation training.
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Community-led initiatives encouraging peaceful conflict resolution, especially during peak nightlife hours.
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Open forums involving students, business owners, and officials to develop strategies aimed at reducing violence and making downtown safer.
đź“ť Final Thoughts
This tragic act of violence has devastated San Marcos, claiming the lives of two young men at the height of their futures and deepening communal wounds. As authorities continue to piece together the motive and responsibility, the community stands united in grief and action. If you have information, please reach out to San Marcos Police Department.